On 19 September, the PROTEGO team in Nigeria brought the community together at Elegushi Beach for Tides & Tribes — a day that combined a beach cleanup with music, games and conversation. The morning was spent collecting litter along the shoreline, and the amount collected served as a stark reminder of how easily discarded plastic makes its way onto the coastline.

Clearing the beach, however, is only one part of the work. Tackling the problem at its source, and keeping waste out of waterways, demands ongoing attention from communities, businesses and individuals alike.

What made the day special was the spirit behind it: neighbors, families and volunteers came together not just to clean, but to connect, share ideas and enjoy the beach they were protecting.